Calcite and Fluorite Physical Properties
Solubility
Soluble
slightly water soluble and in hot hydrochloric acid
Durability
Not Available
Not Available
Specific Gravity
2.67-2.73
3.00-3.25
Fracture
Conchoidal, ConchoidalArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009), ConchoidalArthur Thomas, Gemstones (2009), Brittle, Conchoidal
Subconchoidal, Uneven, ConchoidalWalter Schumann, Gemstones of the world (2001) More from other references
Cleavage
Perfect on [10 1 1] three directions with angle of 74° 55
Octahedral, perfect on {111}, parting on {011}
Chemical Composition
CaCO 3Ulrich Henn and Claudio C.
CaF2
Calcite and Fluorite Chemical Formula
While comparing Calcite and Fluorite physical properties, the important data you should know is its chemical composition. Since chemical formula defines the molecular structure of the crystal, most of the physical properties like color, tenacity, solubility are governed by Calcite and Fluorite chemical formula.
- Chemical formula of Calcite- CaCO 3Ulrich Henn and Claudio C.
- Chemical formula of Fluorite- CaF2
Calcite and Fluorite Specific Gravity
Another important criteria for qualitative analysis of gemstones is Calcite and Fluorite Specific gravity. Specific gravity is the relative density of a gemstone compared with respect to density of water. Gemologists use Calcite and Fluorite Optical Properties during the identification of gemstone. Specific gravity of Calcite is 3.00-3.25 whereas that of Fluorite is 3.00-3.25.